08/25/2026
Vendor Spotlight: Outdoor Education Adventures
What if a skull, an owl pellet, or a salamander could spark a lifelong love of science?
For Outdoor Education Adventures, that's exactly the point. This Yamhill County nonprofit helps grow future naturalists, scientists, explorers, and stewards of the outdoors through hands-on experiences that get kids outside and learning through curiosity, adventure, and play.
Their programs include nature preschool, day camps, homeschool and after-school programs, field trips, and community events. And their favorite thing to bring to the Farmers Market? Their animal collection! Kids can investigate everything from mysterious skulls and fascinating insects to owl pellets and fur pelts.
The magic happens when something that might initially seem strange or even a little scary, becomes fascinating. A child who is hesitant to get close to a bee or mummified bat suddenly reaches out, starts asking questions, and discovers something new. Those moments of wonder are what Outdoor Education Adventures is all about.
OEA's roots go back to 2012, when Theresa Crain founded Watershed Education Adventures to bring more environmental education opportunities to children in Yamhill County. Neyssa Hays joined the effort in 2015, and in 2017 the two launched Outdoor Education Adventures. What began as a small program offering nature activities in local parks has grown into a year-round nonprofit serving thousands of children and families throughout the county.
We also love that OEA believes every child should have the opportunity to experience nature. They offer scholarships and free community programs throughout the year, with much of their financial assistance made possible through donations from generous community members.
And while their programs are rooted in real science, you won't find much sitting around in a classroom. The best learning happens when kids are outside exploring, asking questions, getting muddy, and making discoveries for themselves.
We love having Outdoor Education Adventures at the McMinnville Farmers Market and seeing their enthusiasm for connecting kids and families with the natural world.
Stop by their booth, say hello, and you might just leave knowing a little more about salamanders, insects, fungi, owl pellets or whatever fascinating discovery is on the table that day!
📍 Find them at the McMinnville Farmers Market
📸 Instagram:
🌐 edoutdoors.org
